When managing construction or renovation projects, drywall disposal can be one of those tasks that’s easy to overlook—but it’s more complicated than it seems. Whether you’re demolishing office interiors, upgrading retail spaces, or clearing out post-renovation waste, disposing of commercial drywall the wrong way can lead to environmental harm, safety risks, and even legal trouble.
Here are five common mistakes businesses make when disposing of drywall—and how to avoid them for a smoother, safer process.
1. Tossing It in the Regular Dumpster
One of the biggest and most frequent mistakes is throwing drywall into the general waste bin. Standard dumpsters are not equipped to handle construction and demolition (C&D) debris, especially materials like gypsum board. Drywall contains sulfate, which, when broken down in landfills, can produce hydrogen sulfide—a toxic gas with a foul odor and serious health risks.
What to Do Instead:
Use a designated C&D waste bin or connect with a certified recycling provider that accepts drywall. Companies like Canadian Empire Recycling specialize in sorting and recycling construction materials responsibly, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and supporting eco-conscious commercial waste disposal Langley and the surrounding areas.
2. Ignoring Local Disposal Regulations
Every municipality has its own set of rules when it comes to drywall disposal, especially for commercial projects. In many areas, disposing of drywall in residential waste streams is not only discouraged but strictly prohibited. Failing to comply can result in fines and penalties for your business.
How to Avoid It:
Before starting any project, check with your local waste management authority or partner with a local disposal expert. In communities with strong construction activity, drywall disposal in Langley must follow strict guidelines to protect the environment and public health. Working with a licensed service ensures your project stays within regulations and avoids complications.
3. Mixing Drywall With Other Construction Waste
It might seem easier to toss all your demo debris—wood, metal, concrete, and drywall—into one bin. But mixing materials creates challenges for recycling facilities and can prevent drywall from being reused or processed properly.
Why It Matters:
Contaminated drywall loads often end up in landfills even if they were intended for recycling. That means missed opportunities for material recovery and higher tipping fees.
Best Practice:
Separate drywall from other waste on-site using clearly labeled bins or designated areas. This simple step can improve recycling rates and reduce your overall disposal costs.
4. Overlooking the Presence of Asbestos
Older drywall or joint compound in commercial buildings—especially those built before the 1990s—may contain asbestos, a dangerous carcinogen. If your demolition team disturbs asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) without proper handling, it can lead to serious health hazards and legal consequences.
How to Stay Safe:
Before beginning demolition, conduct an environmental assessment or hazardous materials survey. If asbestos is detected, hire a licensed abatement contractor to remove it safely. Businesses handling hazardous waste in Langley must comply with provincial disposal regulations to avoid serious environmental and legal risks.
5. Failing to Recycle When Possible
Gypsum, the main component in drywall, is highly recyclable—yet tons of it still end up in landfills every year. Recycling drywall not only conserves natural resources but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions and landfill strain.
What You Can Do:
Work with a recycling provider who understands the ins and outs of drywall disposal. Canadian Empire Recycling offers drywall collection and recycling services tailored to commercial projects, helping your business meet sustainability goals and reduce its environmental footprint.
Get It Right the First Time
Proper drywall disposal isn’t just about getting rid of waste—it’s about doing it legally, safely, and responsibly. By avoiding these five common mistakes, your business can streamline operations, protect the environment, and avoid costly fines.
Need help managing your commercial drywall waste? Contact Canadian Empire Recycling to schedule a pickup or learn more about our drywall disposal, hazardous waste handling, and commercial waste solutions in Langley and the Lower Mainland.